


Vaughan Mills is a massive indoor shopping destination that doubles as an entertainment hub for families, featuring a Family Fun Centre arcade, bowling alley, and diverse dining options that make it perfect for rainy days or summer heat escapes. With over 1.2 million square feet of space, this mall goes beyond shopping to offer hands-on activities that keep kids engaged while parents browse or enjoy the climate-controlled comfort.
Weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday, 10 AM to 1 PM) offer the best experience with lighter crowds and ample parking. Avoid weekends and Canadian holiday Mondays when the mall gets packed with locals, and steer clear of the holiday shopping season (late November through December) unless you enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Parking is free and plentiful in the massive outdoor lots. The mall has a food court plus sit-down restaurants, nursing rooms, and family washrooms throughout, making it well-equipped for families spending several hours exploring.
Open year-round with extended hours during the holiday season (November and December). The indoor setting makes it an excellent option during harsh Canadian winters or hot, humid summer days. Special events and activities often occur during school breaks and holidays.
The mall itself has extensive dining options including the food court and several family-friendly restaurants like Moxies and Canyon Creek Chophouse. If venturing outside, Jack Astor's Bar and Grill is a short drive away and offers a fun, kid-friendly atmosphere with colouring menus.
Upper Canada Mall is a sprawling indoor shopping destination that goes beyond retail, offering dedicated play areas, family dining options, and climate-controlled comfort year-round. With over 200 stores including popular toy shops, children's clothing outlets, and entertainment options, it's a one-stop destination where parents can shop while kids stay engaged and entertained.
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection offers a unique blend of art and nature that keeps kids engaged through interactive family programs, scavenger hunts, and beautiful outdoor walking trails through 100 acres of forested land. Young visitors can explore iconic Canadian landscape paintings by the Group of Seven while enjoying hands-on art activities designed specifically for children, making this a cultural experience that feels more like an adventure than a traditional museum visit.
Horse Palace is a fascinating multi-use sports facility where kids can experience the excitement of equestrian events, agricultural shows, and family-friendly exhibitions throughout the year. This historic venue offers children a unique opportunity to see horses up close, learn about agricultural life, and enjoy various competitions in a welcoming environment that blends sports, education, and entertainment.
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection offers families a unique blend of world-class Canadian art and natural beauty on 100 acres of scenic trails in Kleinburg, just outside Toronto. Kids can explore interactive family programs designed to make art accessible and fun, while parents enjoy stunning collections featuring the Group of Seven landscape painters and Indigenous art in a beautiful woodland setting.